Alumni Spotlight- Steve Pyter

"The Masters with certification program at VanderCook is a rare and unique offering for college graduates. It helped me to fill in the gaps from my undergrad program and turn my passion for TEACHING music into a career!"

Steve Pyter earned his Master of Music Education with Teacher Certification Degree in July 2007. He is currently director of bands at Plainfield North High School, assistant director of the Morris Community Mentor Band, and a music arranger for various high schools throughout the Chicagoland area. Steve also serves on the VanderCook College of Music Alumni Board. Steve is making a big difference in the lives of his students. He supports the college through an annual pledge, volunteer work, and has encouraged his current students interested in music education to consider VanderCook. He speaks highly of his experience at VanderCook, in particular, the Master's with Certification program.

The Master of Music Education with Teacher Certification Degree Program is designed for students who have earned an undergraduate degree in an area such as music theory, music history, music performance, or music therapy and want to become certified to teach music in schools. You complete your teacher certification requirements while pursuing graduate education studies. Students choose to have an emphasis in band, choral, string, or general music education.

"VanderCook gave me the best of both worlds. In the fall and spring, class sizes were small and every professor knew my name. In the summer and through MECA classes, hundreds of educators from around the country came to VanderCook for continuing education and shared their experience and knowledge"

"VanderCook and the city of Chicago offer so many learning opportunities - just be ready to seize them. After six years of teaching, I rely on my professors and friends from VanderCook now more than ever. Even after graduation, the VanderCook family will continue to be an important part of your teaching and your life!"

VanderCook College of Music is located 3 miles south of downtown Chicago, on the campus of the Illinois Institute of Technology. The college is easily accessible by public transportation providing students ample opportunity to enjoy the city's diverse and cultural activities. This world-class city offers thirty miles of beautiful lakefront beaches and paths, some of the finest restaurants, top-notch sporting events, and a musical arts experience like no other.